Irresistible Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s nothing quite like the aroma of Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs wafting through the house. Imagine succulent meatballs simmering in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce that’s as festive as Grandma’s holiday sweater—complete with blinking lights. sweet and salty pretzel hugs cranberry crumble bars recipe With each bite, you’re greeted by a burst of flavors that dance on your palate, making it hard to resist going back for seconds or, let’s be honest, thirds. gingerbread thumbprint cookies.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of spending Christmas Eve together, feasting on finger foods while exchanging stories and laughter. The highlight? My Aunt Linda’s famous meatballs slathered in her secret cranberry sauce. cranberry upside down cake Every time I make these Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, I’m transported back to those cozy gatherings filled with love and joy.

My friends always rave about how these meatballs steal the show at every holiday party.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs; it balances flavor without too much grease.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to give the meatballs texture; they help bind everything together.
• Cranberry Sauce: Opt for whole-berry cranberry sauce for added texture; it creates a delightful contrast in each bite.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
• Eggs: Eggs act as a binder; they keep your meatballs moist and prevent them from falling apart.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami flavor; just a splash elevates the meatball experience to new heights.
• Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key; adjust levels based on your taste preference to ensure flavorful bites.
• Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley brightens the dish with color and freshness; sprinkle on top before serving for added flair.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until fully combined without overworking the meat.

Shape Into Meatballs: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly—practice makes perfect!

Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Create the Sauce: While the meatballs bake, stir together cranberry sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. If desired, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some chili flakes for an extra kick.

Cook the Meatballs in Sauce: Once cooked through, transfer the hot meatballs into the saucepan with cranberry sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through and coated well.

Serve and Enjoy!: Serve immediately while warm! Garnish with chopped parsley if using—your guests will appreciate this festive touch as they dive into these savory treats!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking the meatballs to achieve a crispy exterior, then simmer them in the cranberry sauce for the perfect blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for beef or add chopped herbs for an extra flavor boost. Experimenting is half the fun.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat to maintain tenderness.

Cooking these Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs always brings back memories of my aunt’s holiday parties where everyone gathered around the table, laughing and asking for seconds. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.

FAQ

Can I make these Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, prepare them a day in advance and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?

They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or a festive salad.

Are there vegetarian options for Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?

Absolutely! Substitute meat with lentils or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

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• Author: Mia Hanry
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 18 meatballs (6 servings) 1x

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Description

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect holiday treat that combines tender meatballs with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. This easy-to-make dish is bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a memorable appetizer that evokes warm holiday memories and keeps everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat cranberry sauce in a saucepan over medium heat; add Worcestershire sauce or chili flakes for extra flavor if desired.
5. Transfer cooked meatballs to the saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes until well coated.
6. Serve warm and garnish with parsley if using.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg